Jacques Rogge Sports Centre official opening

from Tapestry 50th anniversary edition

Front cover design

In 2013 the plans for the current development including the visionary Sports Centre were approved by the BSB Board and all the authorities involved. The end result ensured that the different materials used connected with the outside: the wooden roof beams over the swimming pool for example, continue into the wall with the same thickness, which is very unusual. This provides a certain rhythm and movement to the room giving speed and energy that we hope helps to inspire the students. Most sports centres of this kind use cement and need columns, breaking up that rhythm. Explained Jos in an earlier interview in Tapestry in 2016.

Called Project 3-2-1 denoting 3 key ‘elements’ of the building (sports hall, gym and swimming pool) 2 years to build, and our new address (despite the fact that we did not physically move!) being N°1. Paperwork signed, documents and planning agreed, new logo, lots of hard work and excitement and fun – 2016 the long-awaited Jacques Rogge Sports Centre (JRSC) was officially opened by Mr Jacques Rogge himself in September – on time and on budget! Along the way there was a ‘laying of the first stone’ event, a ‘topping out ceremony’, a ‘handling over of the keys’ ceremony and a ‘burying of the time capsule’.

Achieving the BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) award at the ‘excellent’ level required consideration and commitment of reusable and sustainable materials to be a priority throughout the entire project – and that meant even if the building might be demolished well into the future!

Hundreds of guests attended the official opening and some familiar faces from the years of working together reconnected.

Sports journey since the opening

We spoke to Tristian Cook, Head of Sport and Enrichment Faculty, about how sport has evolved in the BSB setting since JRSC officially opened its doors.

“Much has changed”, Tristian says, “We have implanted a strong Sport Strategy that was geared for 2020. This involved our three tier sport model of academy, competitive and recreational. We have appointed full time heads of academy sport whilst establishing prestigious partnerships with West Ham United and Swim Swift Elite.”

“We have the largest sports programme of any European International School, with over 140 sports clubs a week. We have a faculty team of 45, with national level coaches in gymnastics, swimming, football, basketball and rugby. Of 1350 students 1080 are involved in the programme and we are the only British International School to be part of ISST (International School Sports Tournaments) and SCIS (Sports Council of International Schools). We will also be hosting the COBIS Secondary Games (Council of British International Schools) in March 2020”.

“We now provide specialist PE in the Primary School and created a Physical Literacy post so we can keep abreast of evolving practice. In addition we have introduced initial Teacher training in PE.”

“I am so proud of the team and where we are now but still have goals and ambitions and I am excited to see where the journey takes us.”

We reminded Tristian of his 2016 goal – are we a beacon for sport? “‘I will always be honest in my judgements– absolutely YES!”

Students agree with Tristian, one added “I moved here in 2019 and have been blown away by the sport provision. It is so professionally run and the coaches have been outstanding. Student’s are encouraged to support each other and the opportunities we receive for trips is great’